Government of Saskatchewan Committing Funding to Support Anti-Bullying

The Government of Saskatchewan is providing $150,000 to the Canadian Red Cross Society and Saskatoon Restorative Action Program (RAP) to continue to address bullying and cyberbullying and promote positive relationships in Saskatchewan schools.

“Our government remains committed to responding to the issue of bullying and supporting Saskatchewan children and youth,” Education Minister Bronwyn Eyre said. “The Canadian Red Cross and Saskatoon’s Restorative Action Program have been valued partners and continue to provide important anti-bullying programming that engages students and families.”

The Canadian Red Cross uses a “train the trainer” approach to support school division personnel to incorporate strategies designed to reduce bullying and support students to build healthy relationships in their schools.

“This funding is crucial in helping the Canadian Red Cross reach Saskatchewan students with the education and tools needed to create safe and healthy environments,” Canadian Red Cross Saskatchewan Vice-President Cindy Fuchs said.

RAP workers are accessible to students in nine Saskatoon high schools. They focus on student leadership, conflict resolution and skill building in support of healthy relationship development for youth. RAP receives support from the Greater Saskatoon Catholic School Division, Saskatoon Public Schools, the Rotary Clubs of Saskatoon, and the Government of Saskatchewan.

Since 2013, the province has provided more than $470,000 to these two community partners. Their contributions have supported the government to fulfill the commitment outlined in Saskatchewan’s Action Plan to Address Bullying and Cyberbullying.

The plan is a roadmap that guides the government’s work to address bullying. It provides students, families and schools with knowledge, skills, resources and support to help Saskatchewan children and youth feel safe and accepted in their community and online.